Chapter 9, Problem 1SAQ

Interpretation Introduction

To determine: Which pair of elements is most likely to form an ionic bond.

a) Nitrogen and oxygen b) Carbon and hydrogen

c) Sulfur and oxygen d) Calcium and oxygen

Answer to Problem 1SAQ

Solution: d) Ionic bond is formed between calcium and oxygen.

Explanation of Solution

Ionic bond is formed between a positive ion and a negative ion. Positive ion results from a metal whereas a negative ion results from a nonmetal.

Hence, from the given options, option (d) is correct as the ionic bond would be formed between calcium and oxygen as calcium prefers to lose two electrons and oxygen prefers to gain two electrons.

Whereas in other options, all the given elements are nonmetals, therefore, they cannot form ionic bond with each other. They can only form covalent bonds with each other.

Hence, options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect.